For those who love scenic rides, mountains, rivers, lakes and a challenging ride!
I have included useful notes on the route map so this is basic direction notes, but an OS map would be a sensible addition!
From centre of Dolgellau follow cycle route 82 towards Cader Idris. A stiff climb follows into the wilderness. It is worth a visit to the Creggenen Lakes from where you could continue back down to the main coast road (A493) near Arthog. You can then follow the A493 to join Route 80 at Llanegryn to meet up with Route 82 after the climb over the mountain.
However after visit to Creggenan lakes my route continues to follow Route 82. Shortly after the Creggenen turn off the route takes a left fork to follow a steep, unmade farm track for 4.5 miles (see my notes on route map), before returning to tarmac and a long, fast descent into the Dysynni valley.
Here you join cycle route 80 for an easy few miles, following the river to what is claimed to be the most beautiful lake in Wales.
Soon you will see and pass the famous Bird Rock, and a little further on it is worth taking the short detour to visit the historic ruin of Castell Y Bere.
Thirsty? Visit the tea room when you join the B4405 at Abergynolwyn, or as we did, at the bar/restaurent beside Tal y Llyn Lake. And it is most beautiful!
The easy bit ends after leaving the lake, a long hard climb out of the valley on the A487, but a fast downhills to meet the A470 and back to Dolgellau. Don't miss the turn off towards the town centre!